yes, the rear suspension can be lowered without using a spring compressor but
it doesn't take much time to snug one up if not just to take up some of the
tension and moderate the risk. so I apply the hybrid technique, using spring
compressor AND disconnecting/lowering the suspension. also, I should point
out that some aftermarket springs have tighter windings and doesn't lend to
the sole use of the plate design for removal. r-
pg 2-3 of
this thread has tips/photos on lowering the rear suspension w/o
spring compressor. but it must be said, out of an abundance of caution,
that you need to be extremely careful, methodical, and use multiple jacks
if possible.